This document defines key terms related to civics, economics, and law. It covers topics such as common law, statutes, plaintiffs, defendants, felonies, misdemeanors, and different types of crimes. Constitutional law principles are also discussed, including stare decisis, writ of habeas corpus, and due process. The legal system and criminal procedures are outlined, mentioning search warrants, double jeopardy, grand juries, plea bargaining, and bail.

1. Civics and Economics Vocabulary
Chapter 15 - Section One
Common Law- Law based on court decisions
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Precedent- Legal opinions that become common law
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Statute- Laws by the state
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Chapter 15 - Section Two
Plaintiff- Accuser
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Defendant- Accused
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Felony- Serious federal crime
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Misdemeanor- Minor crime
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Larceny- Stealing
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Robbery- Stealing by force
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Burglary- Unlawful entry with intent to commit a crime
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Lawsuit- When a civil case goes to court
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Tara Pawlyk Friday, May 17, 2013 8:18:31 AM ET 04:0c:ce:d3:10:88

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Tort- Civil wrongdoing
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Libel- Printing of lies
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Constitutional Law- deals with formation, construction, and interpretation of constitutions
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Chapter 15 - Section Three
Stare Decisis- “Let the decision stand”
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Writ of Habeas Corpus- The right to be informed of what youʼre accused of
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Bill of Attainer- Sentencing a person without trial
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Ex Post Facto Law- Person can be punished for crimes that occurred before they were
illegal
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Due Process of Law- government may not take life, liberty, or property without proper
exercise law
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Search Warrant- Judgeʼs authorization to search
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Double Jeopardy- Person tried for a crime found not guilty may not be placed in
jeopardy
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Tara Pawlyk Friday, May 17, 2013 8:18:31 AM ET 04:0c:ce:d3:10:88

3. Grand Jury- 12-23 citizens that hear a case
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Plea Bargaining- Negotiation between defense attorney and prosecutor
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Bail- Amount of money set to release a prisoner until trial
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Tara Pawlyk Friday, May 17, 2013 8:18:31 AM ET 04:0c:ce:d3:10:88